Mwanzo / Huduma Zetu / Huduma za Tiba ya Magonjwa ya Mapafu

Huduma za Tiba ya Magonjwa ya Mapafu

Published on June 20, 2025

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Benjamin Mkapa Hospital (BMH) provides specialized Pulmonology services focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of respiratory system disorders. With a dedicated team of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and clinical support staff, the hospital delivers both outpatient and inpatient care for patients with acute and chronic lung diseases.

Pulmonology services at BMH are supported by advanced diagnostic tools, including spirometry, bronchoscopy, arterial blood gas analysis, imaging (X-ray and CT scans), and laboratory testing. The hospital also collaborates with other departments such as Internal Medicine, Intensive Care, Radiology, and Infectious Diseases for holistic patient care.

Major Categories of Pulmonology Conditions Treated at BMH

  1. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    BMH offers long-term management, smoking cessation support, and oxygen therapy for patients with chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

  2. Asthma
    Patients receive tailored treatment plans, including inhalation therapy, allergy testing, and regular follow-ups to manage and control symptoms.

  3. Pneumonia and Other Lung Infections
    The hospital treats bacterial, viral, and fungal lung infections with antimicrobial therapy and supportive care, including in severe cases requiring ICU admission.

  4. Tuberculosis and Post-TB Lung Disease
    In collaboration with the Infectious Diseases Unit, BMH provides comprehensive TB care and rehabilitation for patients with long-term respiratory complications.

  5. Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs)
    Diagnosis and management of ILDs, including pulmonary fibrosis, are provided with the support of high-resolution CT and biopsy services.

  6. Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders
    Services include assessment and management of sleep apnea and other sleep-related respiratory issues.

  7. Pulmonary Hypertension and Lung Cancer Support
    Pulmonologists at BMH participate in the early detection and co-management of pulmonary hypertension and lung cancer with oncology and cardiology teams.


Future Plans

BMH aims to strengthen its pulmonology services through:

  • Establishing a dedicated Pulmonology Unit with specialized clinics and in-patient beds.

  • Introducing pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

  • Acquiring advanced equipment such as full-function sleep study systems and portable spirometry devices.

  • Expanding training opportunities and research in respiratory medicine.

  • Enhancing public education on lung health and environmental risk factors.


Conclusion

Pulmonology services at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital play a vital role in improving respiratory health in Tanzania. With skilled personnel, modern diagnostic tools, and a multidisciplinary approach, BMH is committed to delivering high-quality care for patients with lung diseases. Future developments aim to expand service reach, improve outcomes, and position BMH as a national leader in pulmonology care.